Sodium Nitrate

High Concern

Preservative

Also known as

sodium nitratee251nitrate

The concern

Converts to nitrite in the body; linked to colorectal cancer risk when consumed in processed meats. IARC Group 2A probable carcinogen (endogenous nitrosation).

Read the source: IARC / WHO

What to look for on labels

This ingredient may appear under any of the following names or codes on product labels:

Sodium Nitrate
sodium nitrate
e251
nitrate

Learn more

Read the full evidence directly from the authoritative source.

View source — IARC / WHO

Data sourced from IARC, FDA, EFSA, WHO and EWG public data. For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical or legal advice.

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